Chapter 2 Summary

When James Watson joined Cavendish Laboratory, he brought with him an interest in DNA. Francis Crick was interested in DNA, but the problem was difficult for him to work on because of human considerations. He was acquainted with Maurice Wilkins, who worked in London on the problem of DNA, and it would be awkward for Francis to compete with his colleague. Meanwhile, Maurice had problems with his assistant, Rosalind Franklin, or Rosy. Rosy was belligerent about her position as an assistant and the treatment of women at their laboratory. Also, Maurice, a cautious scientist, was concerned about the interest of Cal Tech chemist Linus Pauling's interest in DNA. Potentially, both Linus and Francis could start competing with Maurice on his work. His biggest problem, though, was relations with Rosy, and he had to consider firing her.

Chapter 2 Analysis

The chapter sets up the...